September is Food Education Safety Month, a month long initiative to encourage foodservice operators and restaurants to renew their commitment to food safety. One of the first things to remember is to always utilize filtered water to prevent waterborne contaminates from latching to your food.

The Everpure 7CB5-S Water Filter Cartridge reduces chlorine and other waterborne contaminants. This replacement water cartridge filters contaminants for beverage and foodservice applications which can have an unfavorable affect on taste.

You can also consider the Polaris UV-12C which is an ultraviolet sterilization system that is ideal for food preparation purposes. This UV system deactivates micro-organisms while producing little change in water temperature.

The kitchen is the mainline of defense between foodborne illness and your family. Let’s look at 5 safety tips for avoiding foodborne illness in your home.

1.) Wash your hands often. Do not neglect to wash your hands front and back, in between fingers and under fingernails for at least 20 seconds with warm water before and after each step in food preparation.

2.) Clean all food surfaces. Do this regularly to remove food particles and spills. Use hot, soapy water when cleaning. Wash the counter carefully before and after preparing food.

3.) Do the dishes. Wash cookware and dishes in the dishwasher or in hot, soapy water. Always keep in mind that chipped plates and china can collect harmful bacteria.

4.) Change dishcloths and towels regularly. Wash on the hot cycle in the washing machine and always allow them to dry in between each use. Damp towels and dishcloths are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria. Throw out dirty sponges or sterilize them by microwaving them for two minutes while wet.

5.) Pay close attention to the refrigerator and freezer. This includes the shelves, sides and doors where food is stored. Consider using the Whirlpool Refrigerator Deodorizer for fresher, longer lasting food. Also consider using any one of our refrigerator air filters for other cost effective options.

It is important to incorporate proper home food safety habits into our daily routines to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and food poisoning. In honor of National Foodservice Employees Day on September 26th, be mindful to thank all of the food service employees from around the world, who provide us with excellent service whenever we go out for a meal.